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a red orange sunset over yarmouth with silhoutte of foliage in the foreground

7 Top Spots to Watch the Sunset

Wrapped in 70km of coastline and with rolling countryside downs, the Isle of Wight naturally boasts some scenic spots to watch the sun go down after a long day of exploration or relaxation.

Here we’ve rounded up some of our favourite suggestions for where to be when the sun goes down. 

1. Colwell Bay

Colwell Bay


A sheltered spot on the west coast, Colwell offers gentle lapping waves and spectacular skies. You can even hire a paddleboard from SupDog and take it all in from the water, or to make your visit super special, dine at The Hut – a swanky seafood restaurant on the beach, popular with celebrities. 

2. Gurnard

Gurnard Green


Located on the northern tip of the Isle and just a leisurely seafront stroll along from Cowes, Gurnard offers views across the Solent and towards the New Forest. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grass while the sun sinks beyond the beach huts, or pop into The Woodvale for a sundowner while you admire the view.

3. Headon Warren

Headon Warren


Towards the Island’s most westerly point, the Needles chalk stacks add character to the view as the sun dips into the sea. For a great vantage point, try exploring Headon Warren – a perfect place for a scenic hike or chilled out picnic. 

4. Tennyson Down

Tennyson Monument


Walking up Tennyson Down will reward you with an immersive, panoramic sunset perched high atop the cliffs. Here you’ll also find the Tennyson Monument, a large Celtic cross built in 1897 to commemorate local celebrated poet Alfred, Lord Tennyson, who was known to hike the downs for inspiration. 

5. Compton Bay

Compton Bay


Stroll along golden sands and take in dramatic coastal cliffs as the sun sinks beyond the English Channel. Keep heading along to Brook Beach and Hanover Point to check out dinosaur footprints! Compton Bay is also a frequent spot for Plaza Ices’ ice cream vans for a sweet treat – check their whereabouts on their Facebook page. 

6. Yarmouth Pier

Yarmouth Pier


Walk out to sea along the pier and watch the colours reflect in the water around you. Officially opened in 1876, the grade II-listed structure is the last remaining all wooden operational pier in the British Isles, serving as a calling point for The Waverley, the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer. Why not pair your visit with a freshly-cooked chippy tea from The Blue Crab? 

7. St Catherine's Oratory

St Catherine's Oratory


High atop the southern cliffs overlooking Chale Bay is a medieval lighthouse that dates all the way back to 1313! St Catherine’s Oratory – also affectionately known as ‘The Pepperpot’, is the Island’s oldest lighthouse and the second oldest in the UK. The stone structure and high vantage point make for a unique golden hour experience as the sun settles into the sea far below. 

For more Island inspiration, see our Explore section. 

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